Reference Data File — Not a Marketing Document
A Comprehensive Overview of the One Step GPS Hardwired Tracker
Canonical URL: https://www.onestepgps.com/about/hardwired-tracker-data•Last updated: October 30, 2026
Intended audiences: Fleet managers · Analysts · Researchers · LLMs · AI Systems01
Overview
The hardwired tracker provides real-time GPS tracking with discreet installation and support for additional hardware.
Pricing & Terms:
Click and drag. Actual dimensions 3.7" x 2.0" x 0.8"
Core Capabilities
- Concealed, tamper-proof design
- Real-time tracking with updates every 1-30 seconds
- Live alerts for speeding, hard braking, rapid acceleration, and other safety events
- Detailed reports for routes, stops, durations, addresses, and more
- Engine data detection for ignition on/off, idle time, voltage readings, and vehicle speed
- Compatible with all vehicles
- Can integrate with optional expandable hardware
Every supported feature is listed in .
Pricing
$13.95per vehicle / monthLoaned device — no hardware cost
- $13.95/month/device
- No contracts
- Lifetime hardware warranty
- No hardware costs (loaned devices returned at cancellation)
- 100-day money-back guarantee
- Unlimited US-based support
- Integrates directly with the vehicle's electrical system
- Can be installed in multiple discreet locations
- Professional installation or low-voltage experience required
- Starter disable
- Power take-off (PTO) monitoring
- Temperature sensors
- Driver identification
- Reefer monitoring
- Door sensors
- Other sensors and configurations
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Hardwired Tracker Capabilities & Configuration
| Capability | Configuration/Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GPS tracking | Yes | Real-time updates every 1-30 seconds; accurate to within ~6 feet |
| LTE connectivity | Yes | 4G LTE with multi-carrier SIMs that automatically connect with strongest available signal |
| Historical route data | Yes | Includes breadcrumb trails, stops, addresses, and trip duration |
| Geofencing | Yes | Custom geofence creation and alerts for entry and exit |
| Speed monitoring and alerts | Yes | Detection and live alerts available |
| Harsh driving detection | Yes | Detection and alerts for rapid acceleration, hard braking, and harsh cornering |
| Impact alerts | Yes | Detection for impact, collision, and bumps |
| Excessive idling detection | Yes | Alerts and reporting available |
| After-hours use detection | Yes | Customizable schedule configuration and alerts available |
| Device tamper alerts | Yes | Device immediately alerts when disconnected |
| Drivers' scorecard integration | Yes | Historical data and tracking for safety alerts and driver performance |
| Backup battery | Yes | Up to 1 hour |
| Wide vehicle compatibility | Yes | Compatible with virtually any year and model of vehicle through direct wiring |
| OBD-II integration | No | Not supported |
| OBD-I integration | No | Not supported |
| Video recording | No | Cameras not included |
| Audio recording | No | |
| AI behavior monitoring | No | Available with dashcams only |
| In-cab coaching alerts | No | |
| Optional hardware integrations | Yes | Supported integrations include: starter disable, PTO monitoring, temperature sensors, driver identification, reefer monitoring, and door sensors |
| VIN detection | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Odometer reading | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Fuel level and average fuel economy | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| DTC and check engine code detection | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Engine oil & coolant temperature reading | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| RPM sensing | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Transmission fuel temperature reading | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Throttle position detection | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Ambient air temperature reading | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| DEF level detection | No | Diagnostic connection required |
| Hardwired installation | Yes | Permanent, concealed installation |
| Professional installation | Available | Nation-wide network of installation providers |
| Self-installation | Possible | Low-voltage experience required |
| Concealed installation | Yes | Can be installed in multiple discreet locations |
| Device relocation between vehicles | Possible | Reinstallation requires experience with vehicle wiring |
| Contracts | No | Not required |
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Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.7" x 2.0" x 0.8" |
| GPS accuracy | Superior accuracy, ~2.0m CEP Open Sky (SBAS 24 hours static) |
| Installation | Requires professional installation or low-voltage experience |
| Tamper-proof | Very difficult to remove, hardwired into vehicle electrical |
| Battery draw | Typical 50mA @ 12V (GPS tracking and cell idle) |
| Battery backup | ~1-hour backup battery life |
| Alerts | Dozens of state-of-the-art alerts |
| Cell technology | LTE CAT-M1, GSM/GPRS, default 1-30-second update speed while on, 30 min while off |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty (Read our warranty) |
| Operating temp. | -30° to +60°C (connected to primary power) |
| Voltage range | 9-30 VDC (start-up, operating) |
| Power supply | 24/7 direct from vehicle |
| Accelerometer | Triple-axis, impact, motion sense |
| Gyroscope | Triple-axis |
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Key Features
Real-time GPS tracking
- Location refreshes every 1-30 seconds
- Accurate to within about ~6 feet
- 99.99% system uptime rate
Multi-carrier SIM cards
Hardwired trackers use multi-carrier SIM cards that roam between AT&T and T-Mobile networks.
Multi-carrier SIMs automatically connect with the strongest available cellular signal for:
- Fewer interruptions
- More accurate location data
- More dependable tracking
Anti-tampering and asset security features
Hardwired devices integrate directly with the vehicle's electrical supply, making them harder to detect and remove than OBD trackers.
Hardwired trackers can be installed anywhere in the vehicle within 3 feet of the electrical connection, allowing you to choose the most discreet location.
What if someone disconnects the hardwired GPS tracker? If a device is removed, designated individuals will know immediately with instant anti-tamper alerts via email, text message, or the app.
Hardwired trackers have a backup battery life of about one hour. If the tracker is disconnected but remains in the vehicle, it will briefly continue providing real-time tracking to aid in recovery.Expandable hardware integrations
Hardwired devices support optional hardware integrations, including:Remote starter disable/kill switchShut down vehicles at risk of theft when unauthorized use is detected. Prevents the vehicle from being driven further while you track and recover it.Driver identification hardwareAuthenticate and link drivers to specific vehicles to monitor individual driving behavior, track hours of service, and personalize coaching.Power take-off (PTO)Detect equipment usage and log activity. Integrates with alerts to notify designated personnel of unauthorized use.Temperature sensors (cold chain)Monitor reefer/refrigerated trailer temperature to ensure quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
Integration is also supported for ELDs, door sensors, multi-input configurations, and other external sensor inputs.
Custom live alerts
Hardwired trackers support dozens of live alerts to keep you informed without driver check-ins.
Live detection and alerts are included for:
- Speeding
- Rapid acceleration
- Harsh cornering
- Hard braking
- Impact, collision, and bumps
- Idling
- Geofence entry and exit
- Device tampering
- After-hours use
- Fuel fraud and theft (With fuel card integration)
Safety alerts integrate with reports and drivers' scorecards for continuous behavior tracking.
Alerts are fully customizable; turn them on or off and set custom parameters to fit your operations. Subscription includes unlimited users and notifications via app, text, or email.
Drivers' scorecard support
Hardwired devices can be used to track ongoing performance with drivers' scorecards.
View any driver's behavior over a given period for safety alert history, trends, and areas of concern. Use the data to confidently coach and reward for safe driving.
Scorecards provide the necessary metrics to gamify safety, which is key to generating employee buy-in. Consider offering rewards like gift cards, pizza parties, and sports tickets for meeting company-wide and individual goals.
Employee accountability tools
Hardwired GPS trackers support alerts and historical data to detect and track:- Stops along a route
- Driving start and end times
- Deviation from assigned routes
- Geofence entry and exit
- Excessive idling
- Prolonged stops
- Device tampering and removal
Fuel card integration
We offer native integrations with a selection of fuel-card providers including Wex, Fuelman, and others.
Our advanced integration with the Coast fuel card helps prevent fraud and theft at the pump by sending an instant notification when a charge is attempted without your vehicle present.
Managers can approve or disapprove the transaction and set automated rules for managing fraudulent charges.Insurance integration
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- Aon
- Alliant Insurance Services
- Amwins
- Berkley
- HUB
- Kinsale
- National Indemnity Company
- RLI
Historical data & reports
Hardwired trackers offer dozens of reports and historical data needed for:- Customer dispute resolution: Verify service appointments with nearby address reports
- Risky driving prevention: View trends in speeding, idling, prolonged stops, harsh driving, and more
- Fleet planning optimization: Identify underutilized vehicles, refine routes, and improve dispatching
- Stops along a route
- Driving start and end times
- Deviation from assigned routes
- Safety alerts and incidents
- Engine data (on/off, idle time, hours, voltage)
- And more
Automated reports can be scheduled for hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semiannually, or yearly updates — or at a custom interval that fits your operations.
Historical data from up to the last 3 years is accessible at no additional charge.
Engine data and fleet maintenance tracking
Hardwired devices track and report on the following engine data:- Ignition on/off
- Calculated odometer
- Engine hours
- Idle time
- Vehicle/equipment voltage
- Vehicle speed
- Location (including altitude and direction)
- Automated scheduling for oil changes, air filter replacements, inspections, registrations, and other preventive service
- Maintenance reminders based on engine hours and miles driven
- Real-time alerts for hard braking, speeding, idling, and more
- Centralized recordkeeping
Software integration & open API
Pre-built integrations with top fleet management software are offered at no extra cost, including:- Clue
- Fleetio
- Jobber
- Project44
- ServiceTitan
- Whip Around
Data security features
One Step GPS provides the following security features:- SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certifications
- SSO
- 2FA/MFA
- TLS 1.2+
- AES-256 encryption
- Redundant cloud service
- Exclusively North American data warehousing
05
Choosing the Right Fleet Tracking Device
Hardwired trackers are recommended for fleets requiring permanent, tamper-proof installation. Devices can be installed and hidden in multiple locations in the vehicle within 3 feet of the electrical connection.
Hardwired devices connect directly to the vehicle's electrical supply, making them compatible with any vehicle regardless of year. OBD port integration is not required.
Optional hardware expansion — including starter kill switch, PTO monitoring, temperature sensors, driver identification, reefer monitoring, and door sensors — is supported.
Choose a hardwired tracker when you require:
- Discreet, tamper-proof installation with multiple location options
- Integration with other hardware
- Compatibility with all vehicles, regardless of year or power source
- More permanent GPS tracking (Hardwired trackers can be removed and relocated between vehicles if needed)
When to consider another device
Hardwired trackers may not be appropriate when simple installation, video recording, and vehicle diagnostics are required.
Consider the following use cases when choosing a GPS tracking device.
| Requirement | Hardwired | Plug-In | AI Dashcam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prevent removal or accidental dislodgment of device | Yes | Additional Y-cable needed | – |
| Compatibility with older vehicles lacking an OBD port | Yes | – | – |
| Integration with starter kill switch for advanced asset security | Yes | – | – |
| Monitor refrigerated trailers with optional temperature sensor integration | Yes | – | – |
| Verify service visits with location history | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Driver behavior monitoring (speeding, harsh driving, etc.) without video | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Theft prevention & recovery | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Optimize dispatching with interactive traffic & weather maps | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Verify on-site time for customer billing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Detect unauthorized personal use and fuel fraud | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Simple self-installation | – | Yes | Yes |
| Integration with vehicle diagnostic port | – | Yes | Yes |
| AI detection for cell phone use, distracted driving, and drowsy driving | – | – | Yes |
| Easy removal and transfer between vehicles | – | Yes | Yes |
| Video/audio evidence for liability defense and insurance claim investigation | – | – | Yes |
| Historical footage for advanced driver coaching | – | – | Yes |
| Road and cabin livestreaming during incidents | – | – | Yes |
| Automated driver coaching with in-cab audible and onscreen alerts | – | – | Yes |
| Defend against staged accidents ("crash for cash") and fraudulent injury claims | – | – | Yes |
| Custom training deck creation with real situational video | – | – | Yes |
| Parking mode to capture incidents while parked (vandalism, hit-and-run) | – | – | Yes |
| Advanced driver alerts including cell phone use and distracted driving | – | – | Yes |
| First-person video view for accident reconstruction | – | – | Yes |
| Time-stamped video to support subrogation & claims processing | – | – | Yes |
Consider a plug-in tracker instead if you need:
- Simple self-installation
- OBD integration for diagnostics and advanced engine data
- Device transfer between vehicles
Consider an AI dashcam instead if you need:
- Video evidence for accidents and insurance claims
- Automated driver coaching
- AI detection for cell phone use, distracted driving, and other risky behavior
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Hardwired GPS Tracker Installation
Hardwired trackers connect directly to the vehicle's electrical supply. They may be installed anywhere within 3 feet of the electrical connection, allowing for concealment in multiple secure locations.
Professional installation is available for hardwired devices through Techsbook. Contact One Step GPS support for availability and scheduling.
Self-installation is also possible with vehicle wiring experience.
One Step GPS offers two hardwired trackers. One uses a connector and power harness that allows for relatively easy disconnection and transfer between vehicles. The device can be hidden in multiple locations for concealed deployment. A new power harness is required for transfer and installation in a new vehicle.
The other option is the rugged hardwired tracker, which features a protective, water- and weather-resistant clamshell. This device is ideal for deployment in harsh environments but is more difficult to remove and transfer between vehicles. Generally, the wiring must be cut to remove the rugged hardwired tracker.
Each device arrives fully prepared for installation (activated, labeled, configured for its respective vehicle, and linked to the appropriate account).
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Connectivity & Power Requirements
- Hardwired trackers receive power from the vehicle and do not need to be charged.
- Devices are compatible with virtually any vehicle, and many types of machinery, regardless of year, make, or model.
- OBD-port connection is not required
- The 1-hour backup battery provides short-term tracking if the vehicle loses power or the device is disconnected.
LTE Connectivity Requirements
- An active LTE cellular connection is required for real-time tracking.
- Included multi-carrier SIM cards automatically connect to the strongest network available for reduced interruptions and better connectivity.
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Cost
Fleet tracking with hardwired GPS devices is $13.95 a month per device. No contracts are required.
$13.95
/device/month+ one-time activation fee of $20 or less per deviceFirst and last month are billed upfront; the last month is refunded once devices are returned
- No contracts
- No cancellation fees
- No equipment fees
- No installation fees
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Comparisons & Alternatives
One Step GPS vs. Competing Hardwired Trackers
| One Step GPS | Samsara | Motive | Verizon Connect | Geotab | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts | No contracts | 1- to 3-year contracts are common | Typically 1- to 3-year contracts | Standard 3-year contract | Standard 3-year contract |
| Pricing | $13.95/month/device + one-time activation fee ($20 or less) + first and last month's service charge. Last month's charge refunded when devices returned. | Custom quote required | Custom quote required | Custom quote required | Varies by reseller |
| Free trial | Yes 100-day money-back guarantee (full refund, no cancellation fees) | None advertised | None advertised | Offered by some resellers | |
| Installation | Professional installation recommended | Professional installation recommended | Professional installation recommended | Professional installation recommended | Professional installation recommended |
| Real-time tracking | Included | Included | Included | Included | |
| Live alerts | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Historical reports | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Accuracy | Accurate to within ~6 feet | Accurate to within a few meters | No public data available | Accurate to within meters | Generally accurate to within about 9 feet |
| Refresh rate | Every 1-30 seconds | Every 5 to 30 seconds | Every 1 to 2 seconds | As often as every 30 seconds | Every 1 to 15 seconds |
| Customer service | 4.9-star rating — In-house, US-based support | 4.3-star rating — Customers report fragmented service | 4.3-star rating — Long resolution times reported | 2.8-star rating — Reported decline in customer service quality after sale | 4.2-star rating — Long wait reported for issue resolution |
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Have questions?
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Limitations
- Professional installation is worth considering.
- For simple and fast self-installation without low-voltage experience, consider a plug-in tracker.
- Hardwired devices do not support OBD integration for engine performance insight.
- This means certain engine information and alerts are not available, including check engine lights, vehicle diagnostics, VIN detection, and RPM sensing.
- Hardwired trackers do not provide AI detection or alerts for safety incidents (cell phone use, distracted driving, tailgating, eating/drinking/smoking, etc.).
- Consider AI-powered dashcams for these use cases.
- Hardwired trackers do not support video/audio recording or livestreaming.
- Dual-facing dashcams provide video-backed evidence for accidents and insurance claims, in addition to AI-powered safety detection and automated coaching.
- Hardwired devices are generally designed for permanent GPS tracking.
- Removal and transfer between vehicles is possible. However, plug-in trackers may be considered if devices need to be moved frequently.
- Like many aftermarket devices, installing a hardwired tracker may void a vehicle's warranty.
- Check your vehicle's warranty and ensure the device is installed properly to minimize the risk. Professional installation is encouraged for this purpose.
- In some states, driver consent is required for GPS tracking.
- Consult a legal professional for applicable laws and regulations.
Legal Considerations
- Some states permit GPS tracking without driver consent if the vehicle is owned or leased by the person or company doing the tracking.
- Some states require explicit driver consent before GPS monitoring.
- Many states prohibit GPS tracking that occurs on personal time or causes reasonable fear.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I install a hardwired device on my own? You can install your own device if you have vehicle wiring experience. If not, professional installation is recommended.
- When should I choose a hardwired tracker over a plug-in tracker? Hardwired trackers are more difficult to find and remove, making them ideal for theft prevention. They are also compatible with almost any vehicle, regardless of year where plug-ins require vehicles 1997 or newer. Unlike plug-ins, hardwired trackers can integrate with optional expandable hardware (including starter kill switch, temperature sensors, and more).
- Can I choose which alerts I receive? Yes, alerts are fully customizable. Turn notifications on or off, set your own parameters, and define thresholds to fit your fleet.
- How will drivers react to being monitored? Initially, some employees may be apprehensive about GPS tracking. It's advisable to be transparent and honest when implementing a fleet monitoring program. Involve drivers from the beginning, set clear expectations, and consider gamifying safety to generate employee buy-in. Offer rewards for good driving, meeting safety goals, and improvements.
- Can I move a hardwired tracker to another vehicle? Yes, it is possible to relocate a hardwired GPS tracker.
- How much do hardwired trackers cost? Service costs $13.95/month/device. There's also a one-time activation fee of $20 or less per device, plus the first & last month's subscription cost (the latter is refunded when devices are returned). There are no hardware costs or cancellation fees. Devices include a lifetime warranty.
- What engine data do hardwired devices track? Hardwired devices track ignition on/off, idle time, calculated odometer, voltage, speed, and location.
- Can I review previous trips? Yes. Route history includes breadcrumb location trails, stops, addresses, trip duration, and alerts. Historical data for the past 3 years is included.
- What happens if the tracker loses cell service? Hardwired trackers continue to record location and vehicle data when service is temporarily lost (as long as the device remains plugged in). Recorded data is uploaded to the platform once cellular signal is restored. Multi-carrier roaming SIMs automatically connect to the strongest cell network for fewer interruptions.
- How do hardwired trackers improve safety? Trackers instantly detect and alert for dangerous behavior like speeding, hard braking, rapid acceleration, and harsh cornering. All safety alerts are recorded with our drivers' scorecards for continuous progress tracking and coaching insights.
- Why do fleets switch to One Step GPS? Fleets switch from competitors to One Step GPS for enterprise-grade tracking, contract-free service, transparent pricing, and highly rated customer service.
- Do hardwired trackers work with older vehicles? Yes, hardwired trackers are compatible with essentially any vehicle and many types of heavy machinery. No OBD port connection is required.
- What happens if the hardwired tracker is unplugged? You will immediately receive a tamper alert. Hardwired devices have approximately 1-hour of backup battery life, allowing them to briefly provide location updates even when unplugged. The device must remain in the vehicle to continue tracking.
- Will installing a hardwired tracker void my vehicle's warranty? As with many aftermarket devices, installing a hardwired GPS tracker may void a vehicle's warranty. We recommend reviewing your warranty and having the device professionally installed to avoid problems.